Abstract:

This study argues that the pastoral application of the Bowenian concept of differentiation of self can be an effective component of family counseling programs in Kerala, India. The researcher considers and evaluates the present experiences and challenges of the modern family as explained by Pope Francis in Amoris Laetitia, in the context of Kerala. He focuses on the multi- cultural and religious context of Kerala and the three major issues of family, namely, the increasing number of divorces, problems created by alcoholism in families, and the increasing number of suicide among the adolescents and youth in Kerala. He sees the issues as a result of lack of differentiation in light of the Bowenian framework and advocates the Bowenian family systems’ therapeutic approaches in enhancing the development of the level of differentiation in the social, familial, and personal levels with a psycho-spiritual approach.

Final Defense:

Board of Examiners: Dr. Cynthia Gavino (Principal Examiner), Fr. Arsenio Lumiqued, Jr., M.S.C., Ph.D., Dr. Myrna Joyce Sanchez, and Fr. Teodulo Gonzales, S.J., Ph.D.

Proposal Defense:

Board of Examiners: Fr. Arsenio Lumiqued, Jr., M.S.C., Ph.D. (Adviser), Fr. Teodulo Gonzales, S.J., Ph.D., and Fr. Jose Quilongquilong, S.J., S.T.D.